Osteoarthritis, also known as OA and Degenerative Joint Disease, affects over 20 million people in the United States. This type of arthritis attacks the cartilage in the joints. Cartilage is a durable, strong, elastic, spongy type of material attached to the end of bones forming the surface of the joints on either side. It prevents your bones from rubbing against one another.

There is no supply of nerves in the cartilage, which is why we are able to walk and carry things without experiencing pain. Those of you who have osteoarthritis experience pain in your joints because the cartilage has worn away and it no longer provides the same cushion between the bones. The bones begin to rub against one another causing pain, inflammation, and tenderness.

Investigating Osteoarthritis Therapies

Osteoarthritis therapies vary from case to case. In less advanced forms of osteoarthritis, the condition can be managed with proper exercise and a healthy diet. Like any disease, it's better to catch osteoarthritis early so you can take natural, non-invasive steps to impede the progression of the disease. If you wait too long, you might have to endure steroid injections or a major surgical procedure like joint replacement surgery.

Alternative therapies have emerged as viable treatment options. Naturally occurring substances like emu oil and certain roots have displayed arthritis-fighting powers. Other products like copper cream and glucosamine have also proven somewhat effective in a number of different people. If you're in pain, keep investigating different osteoarthritis therapies. One will fit your body.